About
Reaching Citizens With Intellectual disABILITIES
DFRC is a well-respected Delaware foundation dedicated to raising funds and consciousness in support of programs that enrich the lives of Delawareans with intellectual disABILITIES. Established in 1956, the private, nonprofit organization is dedicated to identifying and funding programs based on community need.
DFRC Fundraising
Since 1956, DFRC has distributed more than $6.4 million into Delaware programs that benefit individuals with intellectual disABILITIES through its signature fundraising events – the DFRC Blue-Gold All★Star Football Game, DFRC Blue-Gold Bash, DFRC Blue-Gold Golf Classics in New Castle County and Southern Delaware, and the DFRC Blue-Gold Sussex County Auction. These events provide opportunities to promote understanding of people with intellectual disABILITIES.
Each year with the help of volunteers, high school student committees, community participants, individual contributors, and corporate sponsors, DFRC raises thousands of dollars to support programs that encourage individuals with intellectual disABILITIES to maximize their potential, independence, and enjoyment of life. DFRC is committed to transparency and has earned the Guide Star seal. Click here to view our Guide Star report.
Caring for 69 Years!
It all started on a Saturday afternoon in 1956 when high school students from across Delaware entered a stadium to play football. Players, cheerleaders, and fans gathered for a game that featured more than touchdowns – it raised money to help improve the lives of hundreds of Delaware children with intellectual disABILITIES.
That event was the first annual Blue-Gold All★Star Football Game. DFRC’s founders, Bob Carpenter and Jim Williams, two local sports enthusiasts who were the parents of children with intellectual disabilities, inspired the game. They wanted to host a sporting event that spread awareness about intellectual disABILITIES. At that time, people with intellectual disABILITIES outnumbered those with cerebral palsy, polio, and blindness. While there were nationwide campaigns to collect funds for individuals with physical disabilities, there were no local fundraising campaigns to help people with intellectual disABILITIES.
Increasing Awareness
DFRC continues to adapt to the needs of our community with an increased focus on education and awareness. As we move through our sixth decade of consciousness building, we want to help all Delawareans understand intellectual disABILITIES as a natural part of the human experience and amplify our sharing of valuable lessons about diversity and acceptance.
